01 Jul 2019 | 07:03 AM UTC
Afghanistan: Clearance operations ongoing in Kabul July 1 /update 2
Security forces are conducting clearance operations in the Pul-e-Mahmoud Khan area of Kabul on July 1 following complex attack; militants still engaging security forces
Event
At least two militants are still reportedly engaging security forces in the Pul-e-Mahmoud Khan area of Kabul as of 11:05 (local time) on Monday, July 1. According to local sources, the attackers are in elevated positions and firing on security personnel with small arms. Clearance operations are ongoing and additional soldiers have deployed into the area. Initial casualty reports indicate that at least 60 people have been wounded in the attack; casualty figures are expected to rise as more information is received. A security cordon remains in place near Ghazi Stadium and individuals are being warned to avoid the area. The situation remains fluid and details are still emerging.
Context
No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. Taliban and Islamic State (IS) militants launch attacks on government personnel, security forces, and civilians in Afghanistan on a near-daily basis. Such assaults are, in part, intended to undermine the perceived capacity of Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) - and the Afghan government more broadly - to adequately provide security in the wake of the withdrawal of most US-led NATO forces from the country.
Advice
Individuals in Kabul are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the area of the incident, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities or their home governments. The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex.
Although travel is possible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
